Synonyms for

Earl

Verb / ɜ:l / Another word for earl — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A nobleman ranking above a viscount and below a marquess.

Synonyms & similar words

count nobleman lord peer baron duke marquess viscount nobility aristocrat gentleman patrician squire elite

Synonyms by register

Formal

nobleman aristocrat peer lord

Informal

big shot top dog big cheese

Literary

magnate potentate

Antonyms

peasant commoner serf villein laborer worker

Common collocations

  • earl of
  • young earl
  • late earl
  • the first earl
  • earl grey
  • earl of warwick
  • earl of sandwich

Word family

noun earl
adjective earlish

Usage note

An earl is a British nobleman, ranking below a marquis and above a viscount. The term is specific to the British peerage system.

Example sentences

  1. The earl inherited his title from his father.
  2. The earl wore a fancy hat to the royal ball.
  3. The earl was a kind and generous man.
  4. The earl's estate was vast and beautiful.
  5. The earl's family had a long history of nobility.

Quotes

  • 'An earl has got to have some vices,' he said, smiling.
  • 'I am an earl, and I do not have to be nice to anyone.' - The Earl of Grantham, Downton Abbey
  • 'I'm just an old earl, trying to keep up with the times.' - The Earl of Sandwich

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